This Practice Note sets out the procedure when making an application for a declaration of parentage under the Family Law Act 1986 (FLA 1986). It deals with making and serving the application, evidence, directions and case management. It considers declarations of parentage in respect of adopted children, the effect of a declaration of parentage and the steps that can be taken after the declaration of parentage is made to re-register the birth. It also looks at scientific testing, including DNA tests.

The procedure for an application for a declaration of parentage is governed by the Family Procedure Rules 2010 (FPR 2010), SI 2010/2955, Pt 8 and FPR 2010, PD 8B.

Applications for declarations under FPR 2010, SI 2010/2955, Pt 8 are made under the FPR 2010, SI 2010/2955, Pt 19 procedure—see Practice Note: FPR 2010, Part 19—alternative procedure for applications.

The application is made in Form C63 (Application for declaration of parentage under section 55A of the Family Law Act 1986) and a court fee is payable—see Practice Note: Current court fees in family proceedings. Sufficient copies of the application